Dora Moono Nyambe

Philanthropist and Educator Dora Moono Nyambe Passes Away at 32, Leaving a Legacy of Compassion

By Sharnellia Bennett-Smith

Chibombo, Lusaka, Zambia - Dora Moono Nyambe, a Zambian philanthropist and educator known for her transformative work with vulnerable children in rural communities, passed away unexpectedly on December 25, 2024, at the age of 32. The cause of her death remains unknown, adding to the shock and grief felt by those whose lives she touched through her relentless dedication to education, advocacy, and humanitarian efforts.

Nyambe was born on June 24, 1992, to a South African mother and a Zambian father and grew up in Chibombo, near Lusaka, Zambia. A certified primary school and ESL teacher, she initially planned to teach in China. However, a visit to the rural village of Mapapa in 2019 changed her life’s trajectory. Struck by the challenges faced by children in the area, Nyambe decided to dedicate herself to improving their lives through education and advocacy.

In 2019, she founded Footprints of Hope, a charity and boarding school designed to tackle issues such as malnutrition, forced child marriages, and abuse. Through the organization, Nyambe provided safe housing and education for rural children, creating a nurturing environment where they could thrive. Her work extended beyond the classroom as she adopted 13 children and fostered over 150 boarding students, taking personal action to protect them from harmful practices such as child marriages, and supporting their growth.

Nyambe’s efforts gained global attention after she began sharing her work on TikTok in May 2020. Encouraged by her adopted daughter, she used the platform to showcase the success stories of her students and the impact of proper nutrition, education, and care. Her account quickly amassed over 4 million followers, raising nearly $500,000 for the education and welfare of the children she cared for. Nyambe’s viral videos not only highlighted her school’s achievements but also inspired viewers worldwide to contribute to her mission.

Her advocacy also involved challenging harmful cultural practices, such as intervening in cases of child marriage and pursuing legal action against abusers. Her courage and determination earned her widespread respect and recognition, including an invitation to deliver a keynote speech in Istanbul about her work.

In 2023, her life and efforts were chronicled in the book Under a Zambian Tree, written by Joseph Schmitt, which detailed her extraordinary journey and the lives she transformed.

Nyambe’s passing was confirmed by her organization, Footprints of Hope. The cause of her death has not yet been disclosed, adding to the heartbreak of her untimely loss. She will be laid to rest at the school she founded in Mapapa on December 28, 2024. Her death has left a profound impact on the children she nurtured, her colleagues, and her millions of supporters worldwide. The village of Mapapa, the students of Footprints of Hope, and her global audience mourn the loss of a visionary leader whose work redefined what one person can achieve through compassion and determination.

Dora Moono Nyambe leaves behind a legacy of selflessness and transformation. Her commitment to uplifting vulnerable children and confronting systemic issues will continue to inspire generations to come. While her passing marks the end of a remarkable life, the seeds she planted through her work ensure that her mission will endure.